The Saudi airline is gearing up to launch before the end of the year.
Saudi Arabia’s new carrier is preparing for takeoff before the end of the year, positioning Riyadh as a major global hub. Backed by the Public Investment Fund and based at King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh Air arrives with fresh aircraft, polished design and a service blueprint that leans into Saudi culture as much as it does modern comfort.
Fleet and design
The initial fleet features 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, delivered directly from Boeing. This will be followed by 60 Airbus A321neos and 75 Airbus A350-1000s. That’s over 200 planes already gearing up to take to the skies.
Expect a purple palette featuring dark and light tones, with Riyadh Air branding displayed in both Arabic and English, along with a distinctive R symbol. The design draws inspiration from the Kingdom’s lavender fields, shades of indigo at night and is the colour Pantone 2655.
Cabins and comfort
Riyadh Air’s inaugural fleet of 787-9 Boeing Dreamliners will carry 290 passengers each. Business Elite opens the cabin with four ultra-exclusive suites in the first row. Business Class follows with 24 seats, then 39 Premium Economy and 223 Economy. Business Elite and Business showcase mocha gold accents and stone-inspired textures, Safran Unity seats that convert to 78-inch fully flat beds with privacy doors and sliding dividers. Business Elite suites include 32-inch screens with headrest speakers. Business Class mirrors the setup with 22-inch screens. Premium Economy adds head wings, calf rests, generous storage and 15.6-inch entertainment. Economy focuses on space and ease, with adjustable seating and headrests in a calming lavender tone. Across the aircraft, expect high-speed Wi-Fi, gaming and seamless streaming.
Uniforms
Saudi designer Ashi revealed the cabin crew collection at Haute Couture Week in France. The palette draws on royal heritage and Arabic calligraphy. Amethyst shades and premium materials, such as cashmere and soft velvet leather, define the finish. There are three menswear looks and two womenswear looks, with up to ten pieces for women, including hats and footwear. Womenswear includes a structured top paired with tailored trousers and a pillbox hat, as well as a high-necked, asymmetric dress. Menswear features blazer options with a dark shirt and a tie.
Food
Of course, no airline experience is complete without the food, and Riyadh Air is making sure that when you fly, you get a true taste of Saudi Arabia. The airline will shine a spotlight on traditional Saudi hospitality along with locally sourced dates, Saudi coffee, and even Milaf Cola, the Kingdom’s homegrown fizzy drink made with date extract. And while the official menus are yet to be revealed, there are also rumours of having kabsa on board.
Launch plans and perks
Riyadh Air will leverage the kingdom’s strategic location, connecting the capital to more than 100 destinations worldwide, with routes spanning Africa, Asia, and Europe. Industry schedules indicate an inaugural service to London Heathrow is scheduled for late October. Daily flights from Riyadh to London on the 787-9 are expected to follow as more destinations are announced.
Riyadh Air has also partnered with Blacklane for chauffeur-driven transfers in Riyadh for Business Elite, Business Class and eligible loyalty members.
The creation of Riyadh Air is all part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the kingdom’s economy and generate new revenue streams. The airline is expected to add $20 billion to the economy and create more than 200,000 jobs.
PIF has also recently unveiled plans for the King Salman International Airport master plan, which aims to be one of the world’s largest airports. The site covers 57 square kilometres, features six runways, and aims to accommodate 120 million travellers by 2030.
Riyadh Air is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider vision to position itself as a global hub. Expect a carrier built for long-haul reach and a distinctly Saudi sense of welcome.
GO: Visit www.riyadhair.com for more information.